Bandipora, May 08: The Assistant regional transport officer Bandipora on Monday blacklisted 24 vehicles in a major checking drive to regulate the public transportation sector in the district.
Talking to Rising Kashmir Assistant Regional Transport Officer(ARTO) Bandipora Bilal Ahmad Mir said that the objective of the drive was to ensure that the public transportation vehicles adhered to the government-approved fare rates and that the drivers followed traffic rules and regulations.
He said that during the checking drive, 24 vehicles were found without proper documentation and they were blacklisted and are now prohibited from operating as public transportation vehicles until they provide the necessary documentation.
ARTO Bandipora said that the move to blacklist vehicles without proper documentation is particularly significant, as it will discourage drivers from operating without the necessary licenses and documentation and will help to ensure that only properly licensed and qualified drivers operate public transportation vehicles, which will enhance passenger safety and security.
He also said that the checking drive will be carried continuously across the district which will sent a strong message to other transportation providers in the district that the government is committed to regulating the industry and ensuring that passengers receive quality services.
Meanwhile the drive was widely welcomed by the local community, who have been increasingly concerned about the safety and quality of public transportation in the district. Many passengers have complained about the arbitrary fare rates and lack of regulation, which has led to overcharging and other issues.
Mohd Sulaiman, a local told Rising Kashmir that the checking drive by the ARTO Bandipora and the subsequent blacklisting of vehicles without proper documentation marks a significant step towards regulating public transportation in the district.
He said that such drives, if continued in future will enhance passenger safety and security, promote compliance with government-approved fare rates, and will improve the overall quality of public transportation services in the district.
